Paolo Conterno
Paolo Conterno, L'Alto, Dolcetto d'Alba DOC
2023
About this winery
It all started way back in 1886, when Paolo Conterno founded the Casa della Ginestra, dedicated to the production of Nebbiolo, Barbera and Dolcetto wines. An indefatigable worker with a mind of great intuition, he devoted the most favourable parts of the Ginestra hillside to the growing of the grapes, subdividing them by type, exposure and terrain. Furthermore, he had the foresight to predict the existence of a market of connoisseurs of superior quality products, selling his own wine in wooden...
See the Paolo Conterno detail page for more information on this brand
Product notes
The clay-limestone terroir of the hills of Monforte d'Alba, combined with a moderate altitude and southern exposure, gives the wine freshness, minerality, and a good natural acidity. This natural environment promotes an excellent balance between grape ripeness and liveliness, thereby bringing complexity and finesse to the final product.
Production notes
The Paolo Conterno Dolcetto d'Alba l'Alto is made from Dolcetto grapes grown on clay-limestone soils at an altitude of 450 to 500 meters. The harvest is done by hand, followed by fermentation in stainless steel tanks with a maceration period of 7 to 8 days. The wine is then aged for 6 months in 35-hectoliter French oak barrels, which provides structure and balance before bottling. This wine is produced in limited quantities, approximately 1,333 cases per vintage.
Tasting notes
This Dolcetto d'Alba stands out with a deep and bright purple color that reveals the wine’s richness. On the nose, it expresses a beautiful aromatic intensity with dominant notes of black cherry, blackberry, and other ripe red fruits, accompanied by subtle floral and spicy hints. On the palate, the wine is fresh and well-balanced, with a lively acidity that adds lightness and a pleasant juiciness. The tannins are soft and velvety, offering a smooth texture without any harshness, making the tasting experience fluid and harmonious. The finish is persistent, marked by a slight bitterness typical of the Dolcetto grape, which prolongs the pleasure. This wine pairs ideally with traditional Italian dishes, especially pasta with rich tomato or meat sauces, grilled white meats such as chicken or veal, as well as aged cheeses like pecorino or Parmigiano-Reggiano. Its freshness and smoothness also make it an excellent companion for charcuterie or Mediterranean vegetable dishes. To fully enjoy all its qualities, it is recommended to serve this Dolcetto d'Alba at a temperature between 14 and 16 degrees Celsius. This temperature highlights its natural freshness, fruity aromas, and elegant structure, ensuring an optimal tasting experience.